If you take a look at your pantry, you’ll be surprised to see that most of your food contains food additives! Additives are part of our daily lives.
Their role is to add flavor, improve appearance, change the texture of a product or extend its shelf life.
However, some of these substances are associated with adverse health effects and should be avoided. Here are 4 additives to avoid!
Artificial food coloring
Certain colorants, used to enhance the appearance of products, have been associated with allergic reactions in some people.
What’s more, a study by the National Institutes of Health revealed that artificial food coloring promotes hyperactivity in children, bearing in mind that some children are more sensitive than others.
Other concerns have been expressed about the potential carcinogenic effects of certain dyes such as erythrosine (red), which would increase the risk of thyroid tumors.
In any case, colorants should be limited for a healthy diet.
Sodium nitrite
Sodium nitrite acts as a preservative to inhibit bacterial growth in processed meats, giving them that pink color and salty flavor.
A study conducted by the National Institutes of Health has shown that consumption of nitrites is associated with a higher risk of stomach cancer.
For the sake of your health, it’s best to limit your consumption of sodium nitrite and processed meats (bacon, sausages, ham). Choose chicken, fish or legumes instead!
Fructose corn syrup
High-fructose corn syrup is a corn-based sweetener found in sodas, candies and fruit juices.
This additive is rich in fructose, which leads to serious health problems when consumed in large quantities. It is associated with weight gain, diabetes and inflammation.
Sodium benzoate
Sodium benzoate is a preservative often added to soft drinks and acidic foods such as pickles, condiments and even salad dressings.
This additive may be associated with increased hyperactivity. And when combined with vitamin C, it can form benzene, a compound that promotes the development of cancer.